Who is Michael Beer?

Michael Beer, 26, is a left-arm orthodox spin bowler for Western Australia. Beer was the leading wicket-taker in Victorian Premier Cricket last season before joining the Warriors ahead of the 2010-11 season.

What enticed you over to Western Australia?

The opportunity of a contract was definitely a major factor. I had been hoping and trying to get that opportunity and it came from somewhere outside Victoria but I didn’t think it was going to come at all.

Did the reputation of the WACA pitch as a paceman’s wicket make you think twice?

Not at all. In all forms of the game these days there’s a role for a spinner in all conditions so it didn’t enter my mind.

Fast-forward to next March, what would make you satisfied with your season?

I just want to get the most out of myself. I have a lot to improve in my game to get me where I want to be. And if I get an opportunity I have to take it.

What’s the best thing about Perth compared to Melbourne?

(Without hesitation) The weather. No doubt about it.

What makes spin bowling a tougher craft than fast bowling?

(Laughs) Each to their own! Even though I’m a spinner, I’ve got a bit of a fast bowler’s mentality. At first-class level the conditions make it harder for bowlers in general, so that’s a difficulty we’ve all got in common.

Where does the love for cricket come from?

I was lucky to have a father who played cricket at an older age at a sub-district level in Melbourne and he was the same as me – a pace bowler until he got to his mid-20s who then turned to spin. When I started bowling spin it just seemed natural having watched someone else do it, and do it well.

Did St Kilda Cricket Club’s finest spin product – Shane Warne – come down to the club much while you were there?

I played four games with him throughout my journey at St Kilda and each time I learnt so much. He always gave brilliant advice. We had a situation once where we were playing a game and almost forgot to do a warm-up because we were all inside just listening to him talk.

Who’s your pick: Adam Sandler or Jim Carrey?

Adam Sandler. It’s got to be Happy Gilmore, surely.

You walk into a café and there’s a vanilla slice and piece of pavlova – which one do you choose?

Six-of-one or half-a-dozen of the other I reckon with this one. At the moment I probably shouldn’t have either, but I’d go the vanilla slice. Nothing beats them.